Beijing’s an urban jungle, and in any jungle, we need tools to survive and thrive. As urban jungle dwellers, we’ve managed to blend practicality with style, resulting in the modern bag. Here, form meets function, and what looks stylish and fashionable on the outside contains all our essential survival tools on the inside. Inspired by this, we ask expats each week, “What’s in your bag?” and get insights into which essentials they keep on hand when out and about in the capital city.

My name is Calvin Trent. I’ve been teaching for over seven years in various locations around the world. I’ve left and returned to Beijing three times with different jobs and still haven’t gotten tired of it. I currently work as an educator for a company called Pingo Space.

Unlike the other teaching jobs I’ve had, this one actually requires me to go outside once in a while to lead summer camps for children. When I’m not teaching, I usually stick to indoor activities such as drawing comics and training in martial arts, so I don’t really consider myself much of an outdoors person. The last time I lived outdoors for a week was in 2015 when I visited a temple in the mountains of Yunnan Province to train in kung fu. Although I enjoyed the experience immensely, I don’t know if I could’ve endured it longer than a couple of weeks.

On that journey, as well as on most of my other outdoor adventures, I usually use the same bag. It’s a black, military-style travel backpack that was given to me by my younger brother. He is an avid outdoorsman who does everything from hiking to rock climbing. This is one of the few gifts I’ve received that has lasted through years of continued use, and it shows no signs of wearing out anytime soon.

Now that I need to take groups of children to survive in the wild for days on end, the contents of my bag have been adjusted accordingly. Here are some of the essentials:

• Survival Liquids:

Aside from the obvious bottle of water, there are many substances that can be used to survive a camping trip in nature. Mosquito attack? Bust out the bug spray. Scorching heat? Time for some suntan lotion. Other possibilities could include mouthwash, rubbing alcohol, or even sports drinks.

• Survival Keychain:

My keychain is specifically designed for wilderness survival. It includes a flashlight, a thermometer, a compass, and a whistle.

• Cap:

Suntan lotion can only do so much against the intensity of solar rays. For added protection, I always bring a baseball cap. Not only does it protect my face from getting sunburned, but it also keeps the sunlight out of my eyes.

• Deck of Cards:

What’s the point of surviving if you never have any fun? A standard deck of 54 playing cards (including jokers) is a highly versatile entertainment tool that allows for thousands of different games. They can also be used for practical purposes, such as random selection or dividing people into groups.

• Survival Skills Journal:

Last but not least is what I might consider my most important survival tool. My Survival Camp Skills Journal serves as a reference guide to many important survival skills, including knot-tying, shelter-building, navigation, and more!

Want to share your Beijing survival tools with us? Shoot us an email at editor@beijing-kids.com, message our official Jingkids WeChat account (ID: beijing-kids), or leave a comment below!

KEEP READING: Taylor O’Brien is Off Track, and His Mom is OK with That

Images: Calvin Trent

As Beijing begins to breathe again after a month of Covid restrictions, we are pleased to also announce that many camp providers are now taking registrations for their summer camp programs! Over the next few weeks, jingkids will profile summer camps that will keep the kids’ minds and bodies busy during the school holidays in this Beijing heat!

Pingo Space

Pingo Space is known for high-quality, educational camps and activities that are perfect for making the summer days fun and building character. And they’ve got a lot of camps this summer! Whether you’re interested in a day camp or an overnight week-long adventure, or online, in person, or a little bit of both, Pingo Space will have a program for you, all led by excellent educators and well-trained councilors.

Survival: Campers will learn the basics of woods survival during this week-long experience in Huairou, just one hour outside of Beijing. Under the supervision of expert councilors, campers will learn basic knots, campfire safety and construction, camp cooking, and basic navigation. Each afternoon they will put their newfound skills to the test by designing and building their own mini civilization with their teammates, and each evening they will test their skills against other teams in fun and friendly Skills challenges. Water sports are provided each afternoon and include raft building and kayaking. This unforgettable experience uses project-based learning (PBL) to help campers build confidence, creativity, and collaborative problem solving skills while making lifelong friends in a fun environment.

Cooking: Pingo Space’s cooking camp takes students around the world and uses food to explore the geography, customs, and cultures of different countries. Each day is devoted to a different continent and campers will make at least two dishes from each region. Curry to falafel, guacamole to BBQ chicken, all will be on the menu as students develop knife skills, expand their pallets, and learn kitchen safety in a state-of-the-art chef’s kitchen. Over the course of the week, campers will create their own personal recipe book documenting what they learned, and the camp culminates in students personally preparing a meal for family and friends on the last day.

Dino Camp: Did you know China is home to more fossils than any other place in the world? Campers will learn about dinosaurs and fossils using PBL with an online instructor, and end the week exploring real fossils at the museum with a world-renowned paleontologist as their guide.

Ages: 9-13
Organizer: Pingo Space
Where: Survival: Huairou, Beijing. Cooking: Chaoyang District. Dino: Online/Beijing
When: Camp 1: Jul 17-22
Camp 2: Jul 24-29
Camp 3: Jul 31-Aug 5
Camp 4: Aug 7-12
Camp 5: Aug 14-19
Teacher to Child Ratio: 1:6
Language: Bilingual
Price: Survival: RMB 9,680
Cooking: RMB 7,980
Dino: RMB 2,980
Topics: PBL (Project-Based Learning)

About: Pingo Space hires qualified educators and councilors and provides additional training, including first aid certification for staff.
Contact Sophie Su at the QR code below for their full brochure and to sign up!

NBSS Global Camp

NBSS Global Camp is led by an international team, and is designed to stretch students’ global mindset and global citizen competency. Activities include the UN Sustainable Goals Development course, a hands-on bake-off experience, and sports exploration, as well as many fun evening activities, all connecting different continents’ themes each day and helping campers develop a perspective of global sustainability via an immersive experience. Campers will dive into diversified food culture, exercise collaboration, and “taste” the features of each continent. The last day in the zoo will present students with an exclusive environment in which to learn with zoologists, as well as an impressive graduation ceremony in the zoo!

Ages: 9-13
Organizer: Joy Camp
Where: Beijing – Huairou (base) and Shunyi (last day of the camp)
When: Jul 11-17
Teacher to Child Ratio: 1:5, 2:5
Language: Bilingual
Price: RMB 13,500
Topics: UNSDG, Sports, Bake-off, Nature

About: International team from Europe and Asia with teachers who have top international school teaching backgrounds, and who are physical and sportive coaches. Teaching assistants are from international school and UK university backgrounds. Leadership team has managed camps in the UK and Beijing, has been working with top international schools, and has experienced, world-leading education.
Contact: Call 18519381933 or scan the QR code below.
Images: Courtesy of camps

Inspired by the hit reality show Shark Tank, where budding entrepreneurs pitch their inventions in front of a panel of investors for the chance to turn their ideas into lucrative empires, this past weekend the students of Pingo Space in Beijing pitched their unique inventions to a panel of judges.

I had the privilege of representing beijingkids as one of the panel judges, and spent an afternoon in absolute awe at the creativity, concept, and delivery of each team. The kids had one month to come up with an idea, form a company, design their invention, decide on their target market, and make their final presentation at Pingo Shark Tank.

These young entrepreneurs are all between the ages of 7 to 12, but their ideas were far beyond their years.

Eva and Alisa presenting their mini-hospital.

Eva (age 7), Alisa (age 9), and Jasmine’s (age 9) company TM created a mini-hospital that would dispense medicine as needed in areas where access to a hospital wasn’t readily available.

Iris (age 7), Linda (age 10), and King (age 9) created a seismic bed; when disaster strikes, the bed would automatically protect you from harm, provide emergency supplies, and call for help.

Tyler, Timmy, and Mark introduces their Super-T Robot

Tyler (age 8), Timmy (age 8), and Mark’s (age 8) company TTM created a Super-T Robot aimed at simplifying the lives of teachers. Their robot replaces the need for an actual classroom, offering online education, homework submission, and questions. To finish off their presentation, TTM’s Super-T Robot would offer three price tier models; the most basic one, while still offering the same features, would be given free to the less fortunate kids who without access to proper education.

These kids, while young, have a keen eye on society and are able to identify the missing pieces to better the world. The confidence and creativity they showed on stage this weekend gives hope to the future.

While Beijing has no shortage of after-school programs, there’s always a need for a program that fosters creativity, real-world entrepreneurial experience, and innovation. Sometimes it’s best to see the world from a kid’s perspective. Their vision of the world is unbiased or bound by the limitations of technology. It was refreshing seeing, from their perspective, what the world of tomorrow could be.

To get in touch with Pingo Space 平行国 and find out about this and the numerous other after-school programs available, contact them via WeChat by scanning the QR code below.

Photos: courtesy of Pingo Space

Do you have an upcoming family-friendly event that you want to be included in our listings? Maximize the reach of your event and promote it on beijingkids!

Let us know by leaving your message in the comments section below or by emailing us at webeditor@beijing-kids.com. Follow us on WeChat (ID: beijing-kids) or join our family events WeChat group by sending us your WeChat QR code. Please note that readers should confirm with each organizer if events are canceled or scheduled as planned. For more events that may not be included in this list, please check our Events page. 

Fun for Everyone

The Beijing Pizza Festival, Oct 13-14
It’s the sweet scent of dough and cheese rolling through the capital to new and exciting places, namely Zhongguancun’s sprawling Software Park in Haidian, which will play host to the 2018 Beijing Pizza Festival. We’ve finally found the perfect spot for this year’s fest, breaking new ground at that west Beijing location as we take it to the capital’s student and tech hub. Themed after Roman Holiday, the iconic 1953 romantic comedy starring Gregory Peck and Audrey Hepburn, this year’s event is an homage to the capital of Italy and the iconic dish that the country birthed – pizza. All ages. RMB 20 (presale), RMB 30 (on the door). 11am-8pm. Zhongguancun Software Park.

Rumble in the Jumble: Happy Endings, Oct 13
Rumble in the Jumble’s October offering is a “Happy Ending”, as they say farewell to Rumble’s founder, Helen Bentley. The celebration comes with a party that features vendors from different countries. All ages. Free admission. See this page for details about getting vendor stalls. Noon-6pm. Modernista. (WeChat ID: RumbleBJ, rumble.jumble.bj@gmail.com)

Nature Hike Yoga on the Great Wall, Oct 12-14
If you enjoy waking to birdsong, need peace and quiet, want to take life at your own pace, or like sitting under trees on mountain peaks, this one is for you. Nature Hike Yoga is led by yoga therapist Yonnie Fung and Great Wall trekking expert Richard Fairbrother. Adults. Contact Yannie (WeChat ID: yoga_with-yonnie) for information and pricing. From 7am. The Great Wall.

Roundabout Book Fair at Dulwich College Beijing, Oct 13-16
Join Roundabout’s book fair at Dulwich College Beijing. Buy from thousands of donated books and help make a difference in the lives of children supported by Roundabout. The group also needs volunteer support to make these book fairs happen. Email fhm-wob@t-online.de if you would like to volunteer. All ages. Free admission. 10am-3pm. Dulwich College Beijing. (150 1018 7653, chowlilyzhou@yahoo.com)

Lao Beijing Chinese Culture Fair, Oct 14
Join Cultural Keys and the Chaoyangmen Culture Center for a fair celebrating traditional Chinese culture – it’s like all the traditional parts of a temple fair without the crowds! There will be vendors selling products and services inspired by Chinese culture; delicious snacks; traditional folk-craft vendors; and workshops and talks throughout the day. All ages. Free admission but workshops cost RMB 88. 11am-5pm. Chaoyangmen Culture Center. (186 1035 7991, events@culturalkeys.cn)

Camps and Workshops

Intern’s Regulars’ Table, Oct 9
The German Chamber of Commerce in China – North China organizes a monthly regulars’ table for young professionals, interns, students and trainees in Beijing. The purpose of this event is to provide a casual networking platform for the young and future business community in Beijing – across different professional backgrounds and nationalities. This gathering’s character is very informal and laid-back, and the attendees will not only profit from expanding their professional network but at the same time mingle with like-minded people and make new friends. Ages 20+. Free admission (RSVP here). 7-10pm. Arrow Factory Brewing, Liangmahe South Rd.  

WeBelong Forum 2018, Oct 12-13
WeBelong is a 2-day event that encourages everyone to consume more conscientiously and helps to encourage a change of behavior in everyone. The event welcomes CEOs, start-ups, artists, innovators, and others in a unique exchange framework specifically designed to inspire. Find out more about the speakers or register here. Adults. RMB 350 (one day pass), RMB 650 (two-day pass). 8.30am-6pm. Chao Hotel.

Little Film Makers, Oct 13
Pingo Space presents a new course for kids aged 7-13. The Little Film Maker course contains hands-on filmmaking and editing projects. Kids will have the chance to design audio, write a script, shoot footage, use editing software and much more! With a focus on film theory and education, this course helps kids learn not only how to create a film, but also pursue a career in the industry. Ages 7-13. RMB 5,980. 10am-noon. Pingo Space.

Labor Coaching Workshop at Oasis International Hospital, Oct 14
Labor coaching will help you get in tune with your own body and your baby, preparing body and mind for the birth delivery day. At this workshop, participants will explore and practice breathing techniques, basic hypnobirthing, optimal positions, light body exercises focused on hip opening and lower back, meditation and visualization, and natural pain management. Adults. RMB 150. 9am-1pm. OASIS International Hospital.

Relationship Workshop: How to Have a Difficult Conversation, Oct 14
Marriage, dating, and even friendships can be complicated. Disappointment is part of the process, however many of us get stuck in the hurt instead of working to overcome the pain. Join relationship life coach Caneisha Berry in this workshop as she shares tips, tools, and strategies on how to overcome disappointment and begin to restore any relationship. Adults. RMB 300, RMB 550 (couple). For more information or to register, visit this page. 2-5pm. OASIS International Hospital.

Photos: The Beijinger, courtesy of event organizers

Do you have an upcoming family-friendly event that you want to be included in our listings? Maximize the reach of your event and promote it on beijingkids!

Let us know by leaving your message in the comments section below or by emailing us at webeditor@beijing-kids.com. Follow us on WeChat (ID: beijing-kids) or join our family events WeChat group by sending us your WeChat QR code. Please note that readers should confirm with each organizer if events are canceled or scheduled as planned. For more events that may not be included in this list, please check our Events page. 

Fun for Everyone

The Beijing Pizza Festival, Oct 13-14
It’s the sweet scent of dough and cheese rolling through the capital to new and exciting places, namely Zhongguancun’s sprawling Software Park in Haidian, which will play host to the 2018 Beijing Pizza Festival. We’ve finally found the perfect spot for this year’s fest, breaking new ground at that west Beijing location as we take it to the capital’s student and tech hub. Themed after Roman Holiday, the iconic 1953 romantic comedy starring Gregory Peck and Audrey Hepburn, this year’s event is an homage to the capital of Italy and the iconic dish that the country birthed – pizza. All ages. RMB 20 (presale), RMB 30 (on the door). 11am-8pm. Zhongguancun Software Park.

12th beijingkids Halloween Costume Party: Head to Outer Space, Oct 27-28
Head to outer space with JingKids and beijingkids this Halloween! Dress as your favorite astronaut or space alien and join us for an out-of-this-world adventure! This party is designed for children 9 and under (Pre-K through Grade 4). Older children are welcomed to attend but be advised they may be with much younger children. Children and parents. Entrance tickets TBA. 9.30am-4pm. Canadian International School of Beijing.

CISB StageCats Present Sweeney Todd (School Edition), Oct 25-27
CISB StageCats are back with their darkest and most mature musical to date: Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. From legendary Broadway composer Stephen Sondheim, Sweeney Todd is a dark comedy that tells the thrilling story of a madman barber returning to his home in London after years of imprisonment. Please note that this show is rated PG-13 for mature content. The organizers recommend audience members under 13 attend with a parent. Ages 13+. RMB 50 (adults), RMB 30 (students). 7pm (doors open at 6.30pm). Canadian International School of Beijing. (www.cisbtheatre.com)

Community

Roundabout 10th Anniversary Charity Gala Ball, Oct 19
The focus of Roundabout’s 10th anniversary Charity Gala Ball will be to raise money for all the children they support. Gala sponsor ifeng.com will broadcast the event live on their website and on Phoenix TV. There will be an amazing raffle, silent and live auctions, and entertainment from our international community. Adults. RMB 1,100. 6pm. Hyatt Regency Wangjing. (theroundaboutball@outlook.com)

SwedCham 20 Years – The Great Gatsby Anniversary Gala, Oct 20
SwedCham China invites everyone to this special occasion at the Wanda Vista Hotel in Beijing. A grand evening awaits, filled with the 1920s glamour of The Great Gatsby, prestigious entertainment, an exquisite Swedish menu, and the stars that have followed the Chamber through the years. SwedCham hopes that you will join them to celebrate their 20 years in business! Adults. RMB 1,100 (member), RMB 1,500 (non-member). Dress code is 1920’s Black Tie 6.30pm-late. Wanda Vista.

British Ball 2018: The Knight’s Tale, Oct 20
This year’s British Ball theme is “The Knight’s Tale”, the first tale from Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales, written in the 14th century. Attendees are highly encouraged to dress in this fashion during the event. Founded in 1998, The British Ball is an annual fundraiser dinner aiming to raise money for worthy causes in the spirit of fun, while celebrating Britishness in Beijing. Adults. RMB 1,550. Dress code: Black tie and ball gown. Visit this page for more details. 6.30pm. Kerry Hotel.

WAB Gala 2018: Shanghai Swing, Oct 27
Travel back in time to 1920s Shanghai, where glitz, glamor, and swanky jazz create a swingin’ scene. Western Academy of Beijing’s gala takes place at the Beijing Four Seasons Hotel, with live and silent auctions, entertainment, fine dining, dancing, and more. Funds raised from the gala will support the NewBlu, a refurbishment project of the school’s beloved Blu Theater. All ages. RMB 1,200 (individual tickets), RMB 11,000 (table for 10 guests). 6pm. Beijing Four Seasons Hotel.

Fairs and Bazaars

Rumble in the Jumble: Happy Endings, Oct 13
Rumble in the Jumble’s October offering is a “Happy Ending” as they say farewell to Rumble’s founder, Helen Bentley. The celebration comes with a party that features vendors from different countries. All ages. Free admission. See this page for details about getting vendor stalls. Noon-6pm. Modernista. (WeChat ID: RumbleBJ, rumble.jumble.bj@gmail.com)

Roundabout Book Fair at Dulwich College Beijing, Oct 13-16
Join Roundabout’s book fair at Dulwich College Beijing. Buy from thousands of donated books and help make a difference to the lives of children supported by Roundabout. The group also needs volunteer support to make these book fairs happen. Email fhm-wob@t-online.de if you would like to volunteer. All ages. Free admission. 10am-3pm. Dulwich College Beijing. (150 1018 7653, chowlilyzhou@yahoo.com)

Lao Beijing Chinese Culture Fair, Oct 14
Join Cultural Keys and the Chaoyangmen Culture Center for a fair celebrating traditional Chinese culture – it’s like all the traditional parts of a temple fair without the crowds! There will be vendors selling products and services inspired by Chinese culture; delicious snacks; traditional folk-craft vendors; and workshops and talks throughout the day. All ages. Free admission but workshops cost RMB 88. 11am-5pm. Chaoyangmen Culture Center. (186 1035 7991, events@culturalkeys.cn)

Feed Your Mind

3e Tea Talk: Becoming Bilingual & Bi-Literate, Oct 10
3e International School’s Tea Talk for October provides parents with a deeper understanding of what it really means for children to become “bilingual and biliterate.” With guided support from parents and school, and effective activities to promote language acquisition, children can reach their full potential towards bilingual and biliterate language fluency. The talk is presented by Gary Bradshaw, Head of School of 3e International School. Adults. Free. 9-10.30am. 3e International School.

Labor Coaching Workshop at Oasis International Hospital, Oct 14
Labor coaching will help you get in tune with your own body and your baby, preparing body and mind for the birth delivery day. At this workshop, participants will explore and practice breathing techniques, basic hypnobirthing, optimal positions, light body exercises focused on hip opening and lower back, meditation and visualization, and natural pain management. Adults. RMB 150. 9am-1pm. OASIS International Hospital.

Free Business Workshop for Student Entrepreneurs, Oct 19
The Queensland University of Technology and BCIS student-led business group Avenir will host a business workshop on October 19 at Beijing City International School (BCIS). The workshop will cover various topics including real-life case studies and problem-solving; building the perfect business plan; looking at finances; and how to pitch a professional solution (including presentation skills). Student entrepreneurs, teachers. Free. 10am-4pm. BCIS Secondary School Library. (ellie.flesher@bcis.cn) 

INN’s Volunteering Solutions for Beijing, Oct 29
Join the International Newcomer’s Network (INN) this month as their topic is all about volunteering solutions. They will have several local charity organizations and groups on hand this morning giving a brief introduction of their respective organization and what type of volunteers are needed to help them out. Hopefully, you will find one or even several that are of interest to you to participate in. Adults. RMB 60. 10am-noon. Capital Mansion Athletic Club. (WeChat ID: INNBeijing1994, Juli Bradley: 138 1170 5071, INNBeijing16@outlook.com)

10th China RIE Foundations: Theory and Observation, Oct 29-Nov 2 and Nov 5-7
This rich curriculum is beneficial for both parents and professionals who live or work with infants and toddlers. It is presented in a friendly, informal atmosphere where participants will be encouraged to ask questions and receive guidance. Adults. Contact 159 0125 0981 for more info about the lectures and prices. Green Garden Nursery Beijing.

Camps and Workshops

The SLab’s 3-Day Movie-Making October Holiday Camp, Oct 3-5
The SLab is offering a unique 3-day movie camp, where students will get to discover and recreate the quiescent art of silent film-making. Students will learn to tell a story through actions and composition with little to no use of words. With the guidance of a film professional, they will get to work on writing their own story and script, acting, and filming it themselves. All ages. RMB 1,888 (lunch included). 10am-4pm. See more details here. RSVP: j.pohland@hotmail.com. The SLab. (156 0120 1550)

Little Film Makers, Oct 13
Pingo Space presents a new course for kids aged 7-13. The Little Film Maker course contains hands-on filmmaking and editing projects. Kids will have the chance to design audio, write a script, shoot footage, use editing software and much more! With a focus on film theory and education, this course helps kids learn not only how to create a film, but also pursue a career in the industry. Ages 7-13. RMB 5,980. 10am-noon. Pingo Space.

Improv Movement Workshop, Oct 23
The International School of Beijing in partnership with Shunyifornia, a brand new performing arts center in Shunyi, will host a free hour-long improvisation movement workshop and a contemporary dance performance by award-winning Filipino choreographer, dancer, and theater artist, PJ Rebullida. Explore movement, space, and shape through a fun, interactive and dynamic workshop. Adults. Free. 6.30-8.30pm. Shunyifornia 23 Yu Hua Shunyi (186 1083 0067, hnorthcott@isb.bj.edu.cn)

School Open Days

BIBA Early Childhood Center and Elementary School Open Day, Oct 20
Join Beijing International Bilingual Academy’s (BIBA) Elementary School and Early Childhood Center open day. Take a look at the campus and meet BIBA teachers, principals, parents, and students. Learn all about the school’s international and bilingual education and how exactly they create students in becoming internationally minded bilingual ambassadors. All ages. Free admission but RSVP required. 8.30am-noon. Beijing International Bilingual Academy. (maxiaowei@bibachina.org)

YCIS Beijing Open Day, Oct 23
Yew Chung International School of Beijing (YCIS Beijing) Co-Principals will introduce the school’s co-leadership and co-teaching model, and parents will learn about the benefits of its bilingual program and teaching methods designed to prepare students for the changes and challenges of their generation. All ages. Free. 9-11am. Yew Chung International School of Beijing. (8585 1836, enquiry@bj.ycef.com)

WAB Open House for Early Years & Kindergarten, Oct 30
Western Academy of Beijing’s (WAB’s) Open House Series is for parents interested in exploring their educational programs and community. Parents will have the chance to meet teachers and administrators, enter classrooms, ask questions, and learn more about their International Baccalaureate PYP program. All ages. Free. 8.30am-noon. Western Academy of Beijing. (WeChat ID: WAB_Chat, 5986 5588, wabinfo@wab.edu)

Harrow Beijing (City Campus) Open Morning, Oct 31
Come and experience Harrow Beijing in action! The school has announced the date of an information morning at their brand-new City Campus. Prospective Early Years parents will have an opportunity to tour the school’s facilities, meet world-class educators, and learn about the Harrow pedagogy. Places are limited so please be sure to reserve a space as soon as possible. All ages. Free admission but RSVP required. 8.30-11.30am. Harrow Beijing City Campus (6444 8100, cityadmissions@harrowbeijing.cn)

Upcoming Events in November

Honk Jr. Musical at ISB, Nov 8-10
Honk Jr. is an award-winning, family-friendly musical based on the classic story of the Ugly Duckling, celebrating what makes each one unique and truly special. Produced and directed by Hannah Northcott and choreographed by PJ Rebullida. Presented by special arrangement with Music Theater International (MTI). All ages. Free admission but RSVP required. Show dates: Nov 8 (4 PM), Nov 9 (6:30 PM), Nov 10 (2:00 PM). International School of Beijing. (Hannah Northcott: 186 1083 0067, hnorthcott@isb.bj.edu.cn)

TNT Britain Macbeth Theatre Performance, Nov 18
One of the most psychologically sophisticated of Shakespeare’s plays, Macbeth weaves a tale of ambition and conscience, following the career of Macbeth, the hero who became a cruel tyrant. It has been presented by the British TNT Troupe across 31 countries. A must-see for drama lovers, this is also a lively tutorial for English learners. All ages. RMB 280 per person but discounted tickets are on sale. 7-10pm. TheArt Drama Centre, Shunyi. (WeChat ID: Rita-8090w, 188 1312 5882, 1692391223@qq.com)

ISB Middle & High School Open House, Nov 29
The International School of Beijing (ISB) invites prospective parents and students of middle school (Grades 6-8) and high school (Grades 9-12) to learn about their curriculum, meet Head of School Patrick Hurworth, learn more about their high school and college guidance programs, and hear first-hand accounts from their student panel. An in-depth presentation from their middle school principal will follow the high school program. Families will also have the opportunity to tour the campus following each divisional discussion. All ages. Free admission but RSVP required. 8.45am-noon. International School of Beijing. (8149 2345 ext. 1047, admission@isb.bj.edu.cn)

Photos: Uni You, The Beijinger; courtesy of event organizers

For our new column, Ask an Educator, we turn to educators, whether teachers, tutors, or principals, to answer frequently asked questions from parents. To send in your question, email jessicasuotmaa@beijing-kids.com.

This week, our question is:

“What age should I start to introduce English into my child’s education?”

Answering for us Martha Walch, Community Coordinator at Pingo Space, previous EF teacher.

As competition becomes more and more fierce each year, parents are trying to make their children more competitive from the earliest age possible. But how do you know if you’re pushing your child to the limit? What if you’re creating a life for them that their unique puzzle doesn’t fit in to? How do you know if the actions you take now will make or break their future?

Coming from a Western raised and cultured family (with 4 other siblings!), the overwhelming emphasis on education and children in China first baffled me…. Until I learned more about the culture and competitiveness behind it. I find that too often parents put their children in an environment that doesn’t fit their children’s needs, so here are a few common questions I get from parents from my years of experience first in teaching babies, then adults, and now all ages and language levels!

What age should I start to introduce English into my child’s education?

I’ll start by saying…. There is NO cookie cutter answer! There are many factors you need to consider when making this decision, based on your situation. One thing that is true is that when it comes to introducing a language to a child ‘the earlier, the better’. I need to stress that ‘introducing’ does not mean formal language classes; it could simply be an event that your child enjoys in English once a month.

But one question I’ve heard more recently is,

“I want my child to get a western education but I also want them to know Chinese and learn Chinese culture, what should I do?”

So if your child (2-5 years old) is being raised in a household where only Chinese is being spoken, perhaps Grandma and Grandpa take care of the child and don’t speak English, the child has a very established Chinese environment–including language and culture. Introducing English in a fun way at this age is vital to keep the association of learning interesting while balancing the want of knowing Chinese culture and the English language.

Nowadays in China, especially in Beijing, parents are very aware of the importance of English at a young age, but sometimes it’s a bit too early. If your child, younger than two, is resisting going to cultural activities, don’t push it and try to get them to go to activities where they will feel more confortable. Children younger than two haven’t fully developed spatial recognition, so putting them in an uncomfortable multicultural event might turn them away for good!

Remember, your child’s first language is still developing and introducing a second language (or L2) at the age of two might slow down the development of both language levels. Today, it’s very common to see a young adult with really good English and poor Chinese even though they were born in China to Chinese, but they were educated in a western setting. As your child grows, one language is bound to be a little stronger than another, but don’t worry. Evaluate the situation: what language do they speak at home, school, and with their friends? And take action to ensure the language gap doesn’t grow too big!

Now you might know how you’re going to introduce English into your child’s education but your child has resisted! They don’t want to go to class or speak English at all! There are some ways to introduce the language to your child in a fun way, and they’ll start wanting to speak more. Begin playing songs and movies in English only, and ask your school if there are common songs they sing or play at school that you can play at home. Try to attend fun activities with other classmates that are in English, like the Pingo Space Pingo Clubs where every weekend kids can participate in hands-on activities that are all in English! But the most important thing is to listen to you child, if they truly don’t want to go, don’t force them. Children need to be led by example, so if you set good examples for them, they are sure to follow!

Photo courtesy of Martha Walch

The International Summer Camp in Olympic Forest Park this summer offers an opportunity for your children to experience the world in just a few days, without leaving the city of Beijing.

This five day long summer camp put together by Pingo Space and the Moncy Club (an app platform aiming to connect expats to local residents and an outdoor children’s playground respectively) will keep your children actively engaged with learning the geography, culture, greetings, artwork, and sports of a wide range of regions around the globe. They will learn about North America, South America, Eastern Europe, Asia and Australia, and Western Europe, in that order, from ten teachers from the US, Ireland, England, Chile, Italy, Ukraine, and Australia.

At the beginning of the program, students will attend an opening ceremony and subsequently get a chance to mingle with their classmates. They will make a personalized Pingo Space passport, with which they can travel through the world in their five days at the Olympic Forest Park.

From playing soccer and kickball to making t-shirts and masks to a treasure hunt and a skit, your children will not only learn about the cultures of the world but will also strengthen their teamwork and collaboration skills, explore their creative side, and get plenty of physical exercise outdoors, all while creating new summer memories with their peers and making new friends. If you are looking to add some vitamin D to your kids’ summer and some free time to yours, this program may be worth your consideration.

Parents expressed to the organizers that summer temperatures are a concern; therefore the Moncy Club agreed to employ a new sprinkler system for cooling purposes and temperature regulation. The activities of the camp will also mostly take place under the shade of the canopies of leaves at the Olympic Forest Park.

The Moncy Club holds an International Outdoor Safety and Security Certification and an emergency paramedic from the 301 Hospital will standby on site during the camp.

Register before July 17 for Around the World with Pingo by downloading Pingo Space (平行国) and signing up, which will enable you to submit a payment. The entire summer camp costs RMB 3998. There is an English speaking customer service available for messages should you have any questions or concerns. Contact them by calling 4009900723 or add them on WeChat (pingocs).

To travel by car to the Moncy Club enter by the Olympic Park south park east gate, park at the lot, and then enter the park on foot. Walk for about 500 meters and cross over a bridge, from where the Moncy Club can be seen. By public transit, take the subway to the south gate of Olympic Forest Park. Then proceed to walk on the right of the running tracks for 500 meters until you reach Moncy Park.

Free Events
The Beijing Flea Market: One Year Bash, July 16
Ages 6+. Eat cake and drink champagne with The Beijing Flea Market as it celebrates its first birthday. Aside from an indie makers sale on The Bookworm’s rooftop, the event has extended the market grounds to include an additional awesome venue in Sanlitun’s Courtyard 4 community: Pop-Up Beijing. Free. 11am-5pm. The Bookworm (6586 9507)

Mandela Day Celebration, July 16
All ages. The Global South Africans in Beijing invite friends to a picnic at the Chaoyang Park on July 16 to celebrate Nelson Mandela Day. This is a potluck picnic so please bring something to eat or drink. All proceeds from t-shirt sales will be donated to charity. All guests are expected to contribute to the potluck. Free (No T-Shirt). RMB 63 (For Mandela Day T-Shirt). 1-7pm. Chaoyang Park, North Gate (6584 3977)

Master Online Shopping in China, July 16
Ages 16+. Let Sinology Institute you and your teen how to shop China’s crazy version of Taobao, where you can find just about anything. Free. 11am-Noon. Sinology Institute (admissions@sinologyinstitute.com)

Farm 2 Neighbors 2 Year Anniversary Celebration, July 16-17
All ages. In honor of the vendors who have helped make this market awesome every Saturday for two years, Farm 2 Neighbors is holding a vote for the best of vendors. Voting ends tonight at midnight! Free. Noon-6pm. Grand Summit Shopping Mall (WeChat: farm2neighbors)

Fruit picking is an experience kids should experience at least once.

Unique Events
Art in the Streets, July 12-Aug 24
Ages 8+. Curator Magda Danysz says : « Street art is unquestionably, for who wants to see, the most important artistic movement of the early twenty-first century. For some this is not yet obvious. Time will teach them.” Open everyday except Mondays and Sundays. RMB 15. 9.30am-5.30pm. CAFA Art Museum (6477 1575)

Head Wrap Workshop, July 16
Ages 7+. Learn how to wrap well for great style. One glass of wine and turban included in the price. Mothers and daughters welcome to attend together. RMB 80. 5-8pm. Pinotage, Sanlitun (meshynebio@yahoo.fr)

Day Trip to a Haunted House, Drifting, Glass Skywalk, July 16
Ages 13+. This day trip includes lazily drifting along the Juma River, a visit to the Haunted House, a healthy lunch from the local farm (and drinks), a stroll though some of the best scenic spots (think East Lake Port), and the glass skywalk. Transportation leaves from Hilton Beijing. Registration Required. RMB 350. 7.30am-8pm. FCGroup (Buy tickets here)

Fruit Picking in Beijing Suburb, July 17
All ages. Join That’s Mandarin for a trip back to nature for fruit-picking in the city suburbs. This is a popular pastime for Beijing families who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life for the day. RMB 700. 9am-5pm. That’s Mandarin (5218 6432, info@thatsmandarin.com)

It’s Not Too Late – Summer Camps Your Kids Can Still Attend
Chinese Cultural Summer Camps Beijing (Bilingual), Until August 26
Ages 5-12. Experience three weeks of authentic Chinese culture in a small group which can be booked per week at two locations. RMB 3,400. Monday through Friday. 9am-4.30pm. China Culture Center (WeChat: zhicheng-beijing)

Artistic Summer Camps at Atelier, June 27 – August 26
Ages 5-8 and 9-12. Every week has a different art theme with two locations and time slots. Younger students meet from 10am-Noon. Older students meet from 1.30-4pm. RMB 1,500. Atelier (6416 1614, 132 4018 4908)

Summer Knight School Camps, July 13 – August 23
Ages 7-13. Learn how to be a true knight with this camp running in its third season. RMB 4,000 for 5 days. 9am-4pm. Imagine (5739 4933, info@imagine-china.com)

Around the World with Pingo, July 18 – July 22
Ages 6-8 and 9-11. Travel the world in 5 days without leaving Beijing! Meet teachers from USA, Australia, Ireland, England, Ukraine, Chile, and Italy in the most International park in Beijing! RMB 3,998. 9am-3.30pm. Moncy Club (400 9900 723 or WeChat: pingocs)

Active Summer Camp at Kerry Hotel, July 18 – July 29
Ages 8+. Join Adventure Zone’s Active Summer Camp and energize your body and mind. Boost up your skills in this multi-sports program offering fun sports such gymnastics, karate, swimming, volleyball, fencing and more. RMB 2,750 (one week). RMB 4,500 (two weeks). Kerry Centre (8529 8228, adventurezonebeijing@thekerryhotels.com)

Seawolf Summer Camp, July 16-26
Ages 10 – 19. Learn how to shoot a gun, ride a horse, play soccer and pick up martial arts. All in English. RMB 12,900. Changping BJ (WeChat: the_seawolf).

Move it!

Next Week
Madagascar Live! In Beijing, July 21
All ages. We like to “Move it! Move it!” and we’re guessing your family does, too! Tickets for the opening night are completely sold out, but tickets are available for the other nights. RMB 180-680. 10.30am,2.30pm, 7.30pm.  Beijing Exhibition Theater (ponypiao@damai.cn)

The Guangzhou Ballet Giselle, July 23-24
Ages 7+ Give your family a bit of awe and wonder with this upscale ballet headed by famed dancer Zhang Dandan. RMB 60-480. 7.30pm. National Centre For The Performing Arts (Buy Tickets Here)

Learn How to Order Food with Baidu Waimai, July 23
Adults. Stop trying to beat traffic and a ravenous appetite; learn how to get your food to come to you with this workshop. RSVP by July 22, 6pm. Free. 11am-Noon. Sinology Institute (6400 0905, admissions@sinologyinstitute.com)

Beijing Women’s Network has already been recognized in the community as a wonderful platform for entrepreneurs and professionals to collaborate and network.  Their biweekly sisterhood dinners are cherished while their monthly, gender-neutral workshops have attracted speakers on a range of topics.

App-building? Yes, please!

In collaboration with Beijing Women’s Network, Mari Sharashidze started the Pregnant Mothers/ Married Women’s Network to build a professional community for family-oriented women in Beijing.  Members are encouraged to share resources with one another, and the group will have a similar format to the popular Beijing Women’s Network. Note: the events are held separately from the Beijing Women’s Network biweekly dinners.

For their debut dinner, Chinese-Australian Sophie Su of Pingo Space will share her hard but rewarding experience of turning down Apple and starting up Pingo Space, all while pregnant. Pingo Space is intended to help locals and expats connect, whether single and happily childless or married with a home full of kids. We talked to Sophie about her journey.

Attendees have been promised a look into how motherhood parallels entrepreneurship.  Would you give us a taste tester of your talk?
Everyone tells you there’s a plan for a business. You need to set up everything, all services needed to be planned out, but really a startup is like a baby. You can read all of these “child manuals” about how to have and raise a baby, but when you have your child, you find each child is different.  Startups are similar.  They require nurturing intentions.  There’s no manual, and we’re in a new field, so there’s no one else we can really relate to.  Like mothers, we need to continue to adapt to new situations and to continue to learn.

You gave up a store management opportunity at Apple to start Pingo when you found out you were pregnant. Now you’re working on Pingo while mothering your son. What’s been the hardest decision to make out of these scenarios?
Leaving my son every day and not feeling like I have enough time with him is the hardest thing to do. I make a priority to come home on the weeknight 3 times a week, and to have a full day with him on the weekends, but at the moment, that’s all I’m able to do.  My husband also works with me, so if he’s not able to be there, I am there, and so on. That’s for the company and for our baby.

So how do you feel about your current work and life balance? Do you feel like there’s room for improvement?
Definitely.  My mother came here to help care for our son since the rest of my family is all based in Sydney.  We have family meetings and talk about what we’re going to do concerning education of my son.  My mom is very open-minded about how to approach different issues. We’ll read books together and share recommendations then talk about different points.

I also applied my management skills to childrearing, and I wrote a four page SOP for his schedule [we laugh together].  We have a nanny, and sometimes my husband’s parents come help out.  They’re older than my mom, but they do try to come at least once a week.  They’re able to just look at the schedule and say, “Ok, this is what we should do next.” So there’s no confusion about what to do.

Meet with Sophie Su at the PMM Community Dinner, details listed below.

PMM Community Dinner: Parallels of Entrepreneurship and Motherhood, Apr 26
Adults. In addition to talking about parallels, Sophie will talk about how she believes mothers can make greater, unique societal contributions within the startup community. Free. 7.30-9pm.  Sanlitun area, location dependent on attendee numbers. (wechat: mariamski)

Photos: Pixabay, courtesy of Sophie Su